Journey through southeastern Idaho on the Pioneer Historic Byway, a 127-mile National Scenic Byway that traces the footsteps of early Mormon settlers and fur traders who shaped the American West. This route connects the Utah border near Franklin—Idaho’s oldest permanent settlement—to the Wyoming border near Freedom, weaving through fertile valleys framed by the Bear River and Caribou mountain ranges.

Along the way, discover charming historic towns like Preston, famous as the filming location for “Napoleon Dynamite,” and Montpelier, home to the National Oregon/California Trail Center where you can experience pioneer life firsthand. The byway passes through the Bear Lake Valley, where you’ll catch glimpses of the stunning turquoise “Caribbean of the Rockies.” Rolling agricultural lands, rustic barns, and wildlife-rich wetlands create a pastoral landscape that feels untouched by time.

History buffs will appreciate stops at pioneer-era buildings, historic markers, and the route’s connection to the Oregon Trail. The drive offers excellent opportunities for photography, particularly during golden hour when the valley glows.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers ideal conditions, with wildflowers blooming in May and June.

Allow: 3-4 hours for the drive, or a full day to explore attractions and historic sites along the route.

Explore Nearby

• Beaverhead–Deerlodge National Forest — National Forest in Montana
• Bannack State Park — State Park in Montana
• Beaverhead Rock State Park — State Park in Montana
• Tower Rock Recreation Site — Public Land in Idaho
• Morgan Bar Recreation Site — Public Land in Idaho